Tikkun Olam is a Hebrew phrase that in English literally translates as “the repairing of the world.” This concept originated from a 16th century story of the world’s creation told by Isaac Luria in the town of Safed in Israel. According to Luria, when the universe came to be, tiny divine sparks were spread throughout the cosmos. (Diamont and Cooper 1991) The task of finding and gathering some of these “sparks of light” and returning them to places where they were needed — where previously there had been darkness — was the process of restoring or repairing the world — tikkun olam. Historically, for several centuries in fact, tikkun olam involved performing all the commandments of the Jewish people such as keeping kosher, lighting Shabbat candles, in addition to caring for the elderly.

In modern times, peoples’ understanding of Tikkun Olam has evolved. On the one hand, there are those who believe that tikkun olam is associated with restoring the world in a macrocosmic sense. That is, that world repair must stress global geopolitical concerns such as nuclear disarmament and international peace. On the other hand, many believe that tikkun olam can be performed in a microcosmic manner as well — addressing the concerns of one’s local community or even interpersonal issues. Bridges of Understanding — Tikkun Olam: Repairing the World embraces both perspectives. In essence, tikkun olam is the giving of one’s own energy to work for social justice, freedom, equality, and the restoration of the environment. Whether one takes social action at the interpersonal level, within his or her local community, or via global efforts as part of an ensemble, one can strive to repair the world. No action should be viewed as too small or insignificant.

Reference:
Diamont A. and Cooper H. 1991. “Living a Jewish Life: Jewish Traditions, Customs and Values for Today’s Families.” New York: Harper Collins.